Friday, 22 March 2013

I write about local Dutch bands now and then because I think they deserve the attention. Some are just really too interesting and good to keep to myself and of international standards. Jacco Gardner however already created a buzz internationally with his first single 'Clear The Air'. NME, The Guardian and Pitchfork all were raving about him. So with much anticipation people were awaiting his debut album Cabinet Of Curiosities.
Jacco Gardner - Cabinet Of Curiosities (Ronald Says 8 out of 10)
He spent a long time working on his 60s inspired music. Even using instruments and effects from that time. It's not hard to hear these influences back. The record breaths the dreamy psychedelic vibes of the 60s, best compared to the Syd Barrett compositions of early Pink Floyd. Quite remarkable for a 24-year old. But his timing is spot on. Many bands and artists are reaching out to the same era and influences. Even some young band who claim to be inspired by Gardner himself.
Twelve tracks are taking you into the dream world Gardner is creating. It is taking you along magical forests ('Cabinet Of Curiosities'), around dark corners ('The Ballad Of Little Jane') and sultry beaches ('Where Will You Go'). The accompanying beautiful artwork is well chosen. It may get a bit weary in the end, but that's just a minor detail. Gardner is playing all over the place now with his band mates of Lola Kite. It will be very interesting to hear what he will come up with when he mixes the experience, stories and songs from those road trips into new songs.